Our verdict

The Rincon 4 from Hoka marks a notable improvement over its predecessor, significantly enhancing both energy return and stability without sacrificing the affordability and lightness that defined earlier models. In our lab testing, however, we noted that durability is a significant issue with this version. Additionally, the increased stack height, while improving comfort, contributes to a slight but noticeable weight gain.

Pros

  • Reasonably priced
  • Enhanced stability
  • Improved midsole over v3
  • Superior breathability
  • Still really lightweight
  • Increased stack height
  • Suitable for everyday activities

Cons

  • Poor durability
  • Low volume upper
  • Weight increase

Audience verdict

85
Good!

Who should buy

We've thoroughly tested the Hoka Rincon 4 and are excited to recommend it for:

  • Newcomers to Hoka seeking a cost-effective entry point into this brand—it's even versatile enough for walking or going to the gym if running doesn't suit you.
  • Those who desired more cushioning in previous versions, as it offers ample stack height for enhanced comfort during long runs.
  • Runners needing mild support at a reasonable price. This shoe handles various paces smoothly, making it suitable for diverse training needs.

Hoka Rincon 4

Who should NOT buy

We discovered that the Rincon 4's toebox may not be the best for those who prefer roomy and high-volume shoes, as it tapers more than usual and offers less volume inside. For those who find this problematic, we recommend considering the ASICS GT 2000 12, a reliable player in the mild-stability shoe arena that provides a more accommodating fit with higher vertical volume.

However, there is one concern that stands out with the Rincon 4—its durability. If you are someone who tends to wear out shoes quickly, stay away from this one. The Saucony Guide 17 and the Brooks Launch GTS 10 offer significantly better durability from heel to toe and even better stability underfoot.

Hoka Rincon 4 parts

Breathability

The Rincon 3 showcased excellent ventilation in our lab review, and we were eager to see if the Rincon 4 would maintain this high standard. Fortunately, our smoke tests confirmed that it indeed preserved its outstanding airflow, making it perfect for hot, scorching summers—a solid 5/5 from us.

This mild-stability shoe impressed us again during our light test, confirming its breathability. While the toebox allows light to pass through effortlessly, ensuring superb ventilation, the midfoot and heel sections are robustly structured, providing necessary lateral support for those with light pronation issues.

Turning to the microscope, we discovered that Hoka used a different material than in the previous version for the Rincon 4.

Hoka Rincon 4 microscope

This time, it features a simple engineered mesh with ventilation holes across the toebox, which enhances breathability.

Hoka Rincon 4 micro 2

The Rincon 4’s upper might be no-frills, but it excels in ventilation, offers sufficient padding, and is free from rough spots.

We also appreciated that, complementing the excellent upper ventilation, Hoka included a perforated insole—typically found in premium models. This was a delightful surprise in such an affordable shoe.

Test results
Rincon 4 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 269 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Given the Rincon 4's extremely thin upper, we were braced for a less-than-ideal outcome in our Dremel test, yet we did not expect such a teeth-grinding result.

When the tool finished, we discovered a complete hole in the upper, confirming our worst concerns—undeniably a 1/5 rating.

Hoka Rincon 4 Toebox durability
Test results
Rincon 4 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 203 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Turning our attention to the heel padding, we noted that while it couldn't possibly be worse than the toebox, the slight improvement we observed was still clearly inadequate.

Scoring a mere 2/5, it falls significantly below the average, and raises concerns about durability all around the Rincon 4.

Hoka Rincon 4 Heel padding durability
Test results
Rincon 4 2
Average 3.3
Compared to 199 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

The Hoka Rincon 4 features a rubberized EVA outsole, a material we've encountered in only a few other shoes, like the ASICS Cumulus 26. The rarity of this material in footwear is often due to concerns about durability.

Hoka Rincon 4 outsole
We appreciated the extensive outsole coverage, which is quite generous despite the exposed foam in the midsole. This design shouldn't pose a problem and actually enhances flexibility.

So, what exactly is a rubberized outsole? It's basically a hybrid between an EVA midsole and a regular outsole. It offers a softer composition (55.8 HC), providing even some decent energy return and good grip. However, it typically falls short in terms of durability—let's find out if that's the case.

Hoka Rincon 4 Outsole hardness
Test results
Rincon 4 55.8 HC
Average 80.0 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 320 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

Unfortunately, as we anticipated due to the soft material we discovered, the Dremel test almost completely destroyed the outsole.

Don't worry, there wasn't an earthquake in our lab. The rubberized outsole is just sooo soft that it caused our Dremel to go wild!

In fact, at 6.5 mm of damage, this was one of the poorest performances we've ever recorded in our lab during such tests. But are we surprised? Not at all—this is typical for a rubberized EVA outsole. While it offers benefits like a smoother ride, it significantly lacks durability.

Hoka Rincon 4 Outsole durability
Test results
Rincon 4 6.5 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 181 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outsole boasts an exceptional thickness of 6.6 mm—more than double the usual standard.

Hoka Rincon 4 outsole thick

This increased thickness is essential to compensate for the material's inherent lack of durability. It's a smart and necessary design adjustment compared to almost any other running shoe.

Hoka Rincon 4 Outsole thickness
Test results
Rincon 4 6.6 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

Following the durability downgrade from the Rincon 3, we've encountered another issue—the weight has increased from 7.35 oz (208g) to 8.1 oz (231g).

While staying just above 8 ounces is still impressive for any daily trainer, this weight gain is real. We are cautious, hoping that this increase is justified by significant improvements.

Hoka Rincon 4 Weight
Test results
Rincon 4 8.15 oz (231g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

Fortunately, we quickly discovered where the extra weight originated. Using our callipers, we measured a stack height of 36.0 mm in the heel of the Rincon 4, a significant increase from the previous version's 31.8 mm.

This enhancement is a good one for virtually every runner, particularly beneficial over long distances. Heel strikers, in particular, will find this increased cushioning exceptionally rewarding.

Hoka Rincon 4 Heel stack
Test results
Rincon 4 36.0 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot of the Rincon 4 measures a bit thinner than expected at 26.6 mm, yet it's still ample for a well-balanced daily trainer, fitting perfectly within its intended market. Therefore, we believe it's also a good option for forefoot and midfoot strikers—no issues here!

Hoka Rincon 4 Forefoot stack
Test results
Rincon 4 26.6 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Our analysis of the Rincon 4 revealed a 9.4 mm drop, notably higher than Hoka's stated 5 mm drop, highlighting a significant discrepancy.

Hoka Rincon 4 lateral

If you're intrigued by these differences, we encourage you to consult our guide. It explains why brands' drop figures might vary from our lab measurements, which adhere to World Athletics guidelines.

Hoka Rincon 4 Drop
Test results
Rincon 4 9.4 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 339 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

The insole is crafted from EVA and is quite standard, offering a comfortable feel with its 4.8 mm thickness, which is close to the average.

Hoka Rincon 4 Insole thickness
Test results
Rincon 4 4.8 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 335 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

One of the critiques frequently levelled at the Rincon 3 by Hoka fans was its firm feel underfoot—we measured its midsole at 23.4 HA in our lab. The Rincon 4 addresses this with a plush 14.3-HA supercritical EVA foam, enhancing both softness and bounce.

What does this improvement mean? Essentially, it's still EVA, but now significantly more compliant and more responsive than its predecessor, marking a substantial improvement. Although stability might be slightly compromised due to the softer foam, we believe the trade-off for greater comfort is absolutely worth it.

Hoka Rincon 4 Midsole softness
Test results
Rincon 4 14.3 HA
Average 21.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 267 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

While the Rincon 4's midsole marks a real advancement over the Rincon 3, it is still made of EVA, which we've found to significantly underperform in cold temperatures. Our tests revealed that this midsole became 43.9% firmer in cold weather.

This drastic change, paired with the shoe's highly ventilated upper, makes the Rincon 4 a poor choice for those living in areas with harsh winters.

Hoka Rincon 4 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Rincon 4 43.9%
Average 25.2%
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Rocker

We congratulate Hoka for the subtle rocker design from heel to toe in the Rincon 4—it's just enough to ensure an efficient and enjoyable ride. In our view, adding a more pronounced rocker to a shoe that lacks longitudinal stiffness would have been a significant misstep.

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Rincon 4 is marketed as a moderate stability trainer, addressing the needs of a broad spectrum of runners.

Hoka has again shifted away from traditional stability mechanisms, instead opting for subtle techniques like midsole sidewalls, outsole cutouts and a slightly rockered design, which all contribute to a more natural form of stability for every runner.

Torsional rigidity

We found it quite challenging to bend or twist the Rincon 4 by hand, highlighting its impressive torsional rigidity. As a result, we awarded the shoe a notable score of 4 out of 5, placing it on par with shoes that feature nylon plates.

Test results
Rincon 4 4
Average 3.3
Compared to 318 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter in the Rincon 4 is stiffer than what is typically found in daily trainers, a characteristic that aligns well with its mild-stability design. However, at 4/5, it's not as ultra-stiff as the one in the Hoka Skyward X, and we appreciate it.

Test results
Rincon 4 4
Average 2.8
Compared to 302 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

We used our digital caliper to measure the midsole dimensions of the Rincon 4, starting with the forefoot. And we discovered one reason for the weight increase from the third edition—the forefoot is now wider, measuring 116.3 mm compared to the previous 113.2 mm.

Hoka Rincon 4 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Rincon 4 116.3 mm
Average 114.0 mm
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width in the heel

Here's another significant design improvement in the Rincon 4 that subtly enhances stability: with its 97.0 mm width and an incredibly broad midfoot, the shoe offers excellent support for heel and midfoot strikers.

This feature effectively provides just the right amount of support, helping these runners maintain a more neutral stride with ease.

Hoka Rincon 4 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Rincon 4 97.0 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

To assess its flexibility, we conducted our 90-degree bend test on the Rincon 4, where it registered 22.2N—a score significantly lower than average. This flexibility makes this Hoka an excellent option not only for running but also for daily wear, such as working or walking the dog.

Test results
Rincon 4 22.2N
Average 28.8N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 322 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

We conducted another cold-weather test, this time reassessing the stiffness of the material. The outcome showed a 28.4% increase, which is quite reasonable and marks a notable improvement.

Test results
Rincon 4 28.4%
Average 34.6%
Compared to 322 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

Hoka is well-known for its narrow-fitting shoes, but the Rincon has consistently been one of the better options for those seeking a roomier fit within this brand. Fortunately, the fourth version continues to offer this more spacious feel.

Hoka Rincon 4 fit

Our first measurement showed 98.5 mm at the upper's widest part, providing an average fit that should accommodate most runners, except those with very narrow or extremely wide feet. Nonetheless, Hoka also offers the Rincon 4 in a wide size in select markets.

Hoka Rincon 4 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Rincon 4 98.5 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

Our second measurement, taken at the big toe area and recording 76.8 mm, revealed a toebox that tapers more sharply than usual—a characteristic Hoka design we anticipated.

While the toebox volume isn't particularly spacious, it generally shouldn't pose an issue for most runners. However, individuals with larger feet who often experience toe pressure may find the Rincon 4 slightly constricting.

Hoka Rincon 4 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Rincon 4 76.8 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 214 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The Rincon 4 disappointingly lacks a gusseted tongue—a feature that would have significantly improved its lockdown. However, at a price point of just £130, we didn't really expect to find one included in most shoes.

Hoka Rincon 4 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Rincon 4 None

Comfort

Tongue padding

We measured 6.7 mm of padding in the tongue of the Rincon 4, which we found to be ideal for a daily trainer—it's neither too thin nor excessively padded, thus avoiding unnecessary weight.

Hoka Rincon 4 tongue

We also appreciated the straightforward lacing system of the Rincon 4. Made from punched eyelets without loops or wires found in other running shoes, it functions flawlessly, which is crucial for us.

Hoka Rincon 4 Tongue padding
Test results
Rincon 4 6.7 mm
Average 5.7 mm
Compared to 337 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

The Rincon 4 lacks both a finger-loop heel tab and the extended heel collar found on many other Hoka models. We believe this design choice underscores its position as an entry-level option within the Hoka lineup.

Hoka Rincon 4 Heel tab
Test results
Rincon 4 None

Removable insole

We didn't find any issues when removing the stock insole from the Rincon 4, nor did we encounter problems when inserting footbeds from other shoes.

Hoka Rincon 4 Removable insole
Test results
Rincon 4 Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

Yes! While it's surprising that Hoka is omitting reflective elements in its pricier models like the Skyward X, we're pleased to see that they've included some in the Rincon 4.

Test results
Rincon 4 Yes